Towards the end of the event there was a nice tribute to Allen Iverson, who was subsequently presented with the 2015 Game Changer Award.
It was a great moment for Iverson, who credited Michael Jordan for inspiring him to want to be a basketball player. A.I. said that the award was particularly special to him because it generated from the respect of his peers, who continue to mount praise on the point pioneer.
Even it retirement, it is clear how much 'The Answer' resonates with the league's current crop. While he didn't achieve the same on-court success, Iverson's off-court impact is comparable to that of his idol, Jordan. His crowning as the inaugural 'Game Changer' is fitting, as he truly did change the game, both on and off the court.
While Iverson continues to have his detractors, the critics that matter most to him, and are best equipped to judge his game - his peers - continue to appreciate his excellence, as evidenced at the Player Awards.
Image via BET |
Even in retirement, the former Sixers star continues to rack up recognition. As for his life post-basketball, Iverson had a simple message: "Same fight, different round."
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